Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-11
General requirements
Operative Text
A. Buildings occupied in whole or in part as defined in this code shall comply with the requirements hereinafter set forth concerning occupancy, size, light and ventilation in order to provide safe and healthful environment. B. The term "accessory use" shall have a uniform meaning and shall apply in the same manner and under the same conditions or restrictions to all residential buildings.
Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-11 establishes baseline standards that residential buildings must meet regarding occupancy limits, minimum size, lighting, and ventilation. The provision is designed to ensure that occupied buildings provide a safe and healthful living environment. It also standardizes the meaning and application of 'accessory use' so that the term is applied consistently and equally across all residential buildings, regardless of type or ownership.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 231 § 231-11, property owners and managers operating residential buildings in Albany are generally expected to ensure their buildings meet the code's requirements for occupancy, space, light, and ventilation at all times. Compliant operators typically conduct regular inspections to confirm that all occupied units satisfy these baseline environmental standards. The uniform application of 'accessory use' under this section also means that any accessory structures or uses on a property are subject to the same rules as those applied to comparable residential buildings throughout the city.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Albany, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 231 § 231-11 establishes a right to occupy housing that meets minimum standards for occupancy, size, light, and ventilation. Tenants who believe their building falls short of these requirements may consider documenting the conditions and raising the violation with Albany's local code enforcement or housing authority. Tenant-rights organizations in the Albany area can also provide general information about how this provision applies and what enforcement paths may be available.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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